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8 Day Mayan Riviera & The Yucatan Sailing Exclusive
Highlights: Cancun
Trip start: Cancun
Trip end: Cancun
* USD per person based on 2-4 people, double occupancy. Custom designed personal tour. Prices subject to change.

National Geographic Adventure Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth '98.33 Client Satisfaction Rating'

Winner National Geographic 'Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth'
2008 & 2009

Trip Summary
Map of Itinerary
Expand [+]

When you think of Cancun, you can’t help but envision exciting nightlife, luxury resorts and the hustle and bustle of one of the most popular destinations in the western hemisphere. Escape the craziness and experience a less discovered Mayan Riviera on board a luxury Lagoon 440 Catamaran (Charter Boat of the Year by cruising World Magazine 2005). Enjoy a week of blissful sailing, spending time snorkelling, swimming, diving (on request), exploring Mayan ruins and pristine islands with beautiful white sandy beaches (often almost deserted), as well as whale shark viewing and a day at leisure in Cancun where you can avail of the myriad of possible activities. With a professional crew of a captain and hostess/chef, with a maximum of 8 guests on board, as well as all breakfasts, lunches and most dinners served to you onboard, your welfare is assured. The pristine underwater wilderness is unique to the region’s spectacular reefs and atolls. During the trip you will be introduced to the quaint island lifestyle of Isla Mujeres, the beautiful beaches and natural parks of Contoy and the historic ruins reserved only for those under sail. With direct or connecting charter flights from most International airports, you can leave your home in the morning and enjoy the beautiful waters of the Mayan Riviera from the bow of your catamaran in only a few hours. Consider taking the catamaran on an exclusive basis for added luxury and privacy.

Day Activities Hotel
Day 1
Cancun
  • Trip Confirmation
  • Cancun: Visa Requirements
  • Meet and Greet
  • Transfer: Airport - arrival - Shared shuttle
  • Features of Catamaran
  • Embarcation & Welcome Dinner
Lagoon 440 sailing catamaran (AI)
Day 2
Cancun
  • Breakfast (included)
  • Isla Mujeres: Activities
  • Day 2: Sail, snorkel & Island tour
  • Lunch (included)
  • Meals onboard your yacht
  • Day 2: Dinner at leisure
Lagoon 440 sailing catamaran (AI)
Day 3
Cancun
  • Breakfast (included)
  • Isla Contoy: Day 3: Snorkeling & Interpretative trail in Natural reserve
  • Lunch (included)
  • Day 3: Dinner on board
Lagoon 440 sailing catamaran (AI)
Day 4
Cancun
  • Breakfast (included)
  • Day 4: Fishing, snorkeling, beach time & Whale shark viewing
  • Lunch (included)
  • Dinner (included)
Lagoon 440 sailing catamaran (AI)
Day 5
Cancun
  • Breakfast (included)
  • Isla Blanca: Day 5: Mayan ruins & Spider monkeys
  • Lunch (included)
  • Dinner (not included)
Lagoon 440 sailing catamaran (AI)
Day 6
Cancun
  • Breakfast (included)
  • Isla Mujeres: Day 6: Turtle farm and beach time
  • Lunch (included)
  • Cancun: Day 7: Dinner & Evening time in Cancun
Lagoon 440 sailing catamaran (AI)
Day 7
Cancun
  • Breakfast (included)
  • Day 7: Cancun - day at leisure
  • Lunch (included)
  • Day 7: Dinner & Evening time in Cancun
Lagoon 440 sailing catamaran (AI)
Day 8
Cancun
  • Breakfast (included)
  • Day 8: Farewell breakfast
  • Transfer - Airport - Sedan/Driver - Cancun hotels
  • Kensington Cares - 3
  • Inclusions & Exclusions
Depart (Int`l Airport) (standard) 
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive

Trip Options
All of our itineraries may be customized as you wish, add extra days, change a hotel, see different sights. Contact one of our expert consultants for your free, no-obligation vacation plan.

Itinerary

Day 1 Cancun

The Isla de Cancún, made up of some of Mexico’s most expensive beachfronts occupies the northeast tip of the Yucatán. The Punta, or point of the island, is nestled between the Bahía de Mujeres (Bay of Women) and the Caribbean Sea and boasts some of the best areas for sunbathing on the Peninsula. Although the beaches of Cancún are known for their powder white sand and exquisite beauty, the waters along the east edge of the island are subject to strong undertow and should be treated with caution.

Upon confirmation of your trip, you will be sent a package with details of your trip.

US Citizens must have a valid passport. Citizens of other countries should confirm entry requirements with their consulate. Often, the airport tax is included in the price of your ticket. Please check with your airline or check your airline ticket to make sure the tax is included. Depending on the exchange the tax is around $48.00 USD per person.

Upon arrival you will be met by our local representative who will help you locating your vehicle.

Cancun International Airport (CUN) offers daily flights from most major locations throughout the world. All major airlines from the United States and Canada offer flights into Cancun. They have connecting service from almost every city in North America and direct nonstop service from all major hubs. There are also several airlines from Europe and South America that either fly directly to Cancun or with a stop at a major hub. Upon arrival, you will be met and taken the 20 minute shuttle ride to where your yacht is moored which is located at Marina Hacienda Del Mar. A private transfer can be arranged for you if you prefer. Please let your Sales Advisor know if you would prefer this.

The luxury Lagoon 440 represents the leading edge of catamaran design with decks unencumbered by sail tie-backs. The vessel was voted Charter Boat of the Year by cruising World Magazine 2005, and features headroom of 6'9'' throughout, an 8 person dining space in the rear cockpit, forward trampolines, forward bench seating, deck shower and air conditioning throughout. The open deckside allows for plenty of room to move around and enjoy the spectacular scenery. Inside, the air conditioned salon features large 360 degree windows, allowing for picture postcard views. All cruise departures include a captain and a chef/hostess. The vessel has air-conditioning in the main salon as well as having individual controls for each cabin. When at anchor, a generator which is located beneath the seat in the rear cockpit supplies the necessary energy to run the AC. For those who prefer the natural breeze, each cabin offers a cabin deck hatch and port hole as well as a top hatch in the bath which allows air to flow throughout this area.

Marina Hacienda Del Mar is located on the north end of Cancun. The meeting time to board the yacht is at 5 pm on Saturday - embarkation before this time is not possible as the crew will be busy cleaning and preparing for your trip. Enjoy some welcome cocktails and get to know your fellow passengers and crew before sitting down to a gourmet dinner aboard the yacht at the base this evening. Your crew will go through the details of what is in store for you over the next week of adventure at sea! Enjoy your first night onboard before the yacht departs tomorrow morning.

The Lagoon 440 Sailing catamaran features three guest cabins, each with private ensuite bathrooms. Each cabin features a queen size berth with individual reading lamps, hanging closet, drawers, cupboards and bathroom vanity providing plenty of privacy, comfort and storage space. The bathroom features a toilet, vanity, sink, medicine cabinet and shower/faucet. The charter layout features four cabins and four heads (one is taken up by crew and three are for guests). Internet is limited to certain locations and not available in all destinations. The catamaran is very stable and comfortable. All sailing is done during the day and anchored at night in protected coves and bays to assure a restful night's sleep.

Overnight at Lagoon 440 sailing catamaran.


Cancun
Cancun
Relaxing on board
Relaxing on board
Lagoon 400 Catamaran
Lagoon 400 Catamaran
Day 2 Cancun

All on board activities such as sea kayaking, snorkeling gear and ocean fishing are included in your trip, so all you have to do is decide what you'd like to do each day. If you have a diving certificate, you can explore some of the Caribbean's best dive sites for a modest additional fee, with the crew providing all of the necessary equipment. Of course, if your idea of the perfect day is lounging on a deserted beach, you will be provided with towels and refreshments to assure your comfort.

After a morning breakfast, enjoy the first sail of the trip from Cancun’s coast to Isla Mujeres, ‘The Island of Women’. The story of Isla Mujeres provides a colorful history which explains how the island got its name. In 1517, when the Spanish expedition led by Francisco Hernandez Cordova, landed here they discovered a stone temple filled with female shaped Mayan idols. These idols represented the goddess Ixchel, the goddess of fertility. Today, Isla Mujeres has earned the reputation of being the region’s more laid back and relaxing islands offering a quaint little downtown with local shops, beautiful beaches and restaurants. During this 2 hour sail to Isla Mujeres, we stop for a quick dip and some snorkeling before we arrive at Villa Vera Marina. Here we hop on a golf cart for a tour of the island, stopping to take in the sights of downtown followed by lunch back on the catamaran. This afternoon, relax and take in the views as you sail around the island and explore the beaches.

All (7) breakfasts, (7) lunches and 5 dinners are included in your all inclusive sailing package. This includes gourmet meals prepared by a professionally trained chef. The mouthwatering menu selections are certain to satisfy even the most discerning of palates. While on board you will enjoy fantastic appetisers, unique deserts and wonderful food all round. There is a well stocked bar on board which operates like an open bar.

Enjoy dinner at leisure this evening (not included in tour price). Head back to the marina and enjoy cocktails prior to dinner and exploring the entertainment options of downtown Isla Mujeres.

Overnight at Lagoon 440 sailing catamaran.


Snorkeling
Snorkeling
Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres
Day 3 Cancun

Awake to the smell of fresh coffee and enjoy a delicious breakfast prior to a sail to the island of Contoy. The four hour sail is nicely broken up with a stop at Coco Reef for some amazing snorkeling. Upon arrival into Contoy, the crew will prepare lunch while they provide an overview of the island’s attractions. Contoy is the home to the national park and sanctuary that makes this stop a bird-lovers delight. About 800 meters wide and 7 km long, the island's dense foliage provides ideal shelter for more than 100 species of birds. The parks visitor’s center provides you with plenty of background of the island’s habitat and you may want to explore the 27m high observation tower. Take a walk along one of the two interpretive trails and enjoy the day in this natural reserve.

After a day of exploring the island, join up with your fellow passengers back at the catamaran for a fantastic dinner and cocktails and enjoy an evening of spectacular star gazing.

Overnight at Lagoon 440 sailing catamaran.


Bird at Isla Contoy
Bird at Isla Contoy
Dining on board
Dining on board
Day 4 Cancun

Today, enjoy a sail around to the Oceanside of Contoy and spend some time fishing (if you feel so inclined) in the hopes of securing a ‘catch of the day’. After lunch, relax on the beach or snorkel just off the coast where you may encounter a wide variety of sea life including manta rays. These waters are also a popular location for whale shark viewing! One of the largest living fish species, the whale shark is a gentle giant and poses no danger to snorkelers and divers. They do pose a spectacular photo opportunity and can be a definite highlight of the day’s activities.

Overnight at Lagoon 440 sailing catamaran.


Swimming in azure waters
Swimming in azure waters
Day 5 Cancun

After breakfast, set sail for Boca Iglesias where you will get to view the ruins of a 16th century Spanish Colonial Church, where in 1523 Francisco Montejo Jr. led an expedition ashore and was attacked by the local Maya. To reach the ruins will be a day of adventure, but prior to arrival, take some time to snorkel in search of octopus and lobster. After lunch on board, disembark and navigate through the mangroves and walk through a dense jungle to reach the abandoned site of Boca Iglesias. During the hike, keep your eyes on the trees which are home to the local spider monkeys. After the excursion, return to the yacht for a relaxing dinner and cocktails and set sail for anchorage for the evening just off the pristine white beaches of Isla Blanca.

Overnight at Lagoon 440 sailing catamaran.


Spider Monkey
Spider Monkey
Day 6 Cancun

After a morning enjoying the spectacular waters of Isla Blanca, enjoy the sail back to the southern end of Isla Mujeres. Here you will get the chance to visit a turtle farm where you can see hundreds of turtles in various stages of life. After lunch, head back out for a day of sailing to Playa Norte where you can spend some time on the relaxing uncrowded beach. Playa Norte is one of the region’s most spectacular beaches with crystal blue and shallow calm waters. All of your needs will be catered to as always and a cooler of cervezas (beers) will be brought into the beach by dinghy for your pleasure where you can sit back and enjoy the sun and sand.

Freshen up and then sit down to a wonderful final dinner with your fellow passengers and crew at the dock. Afterwards, transportation will be arranged to take you to the center of town for an exciting evening of nightlife.

Overnight at Lagoon 440 sailing catamaran.


Turtles
Turtles
Cancun Nightlife
Cancun Nightlife
Day 7 Cancun

Leave the pristine beaches and azure ocean behind today and head into the hustle and bustle of downtown Cancun. After breakfast, the sails will be hoisted and the destination of the day is Punta Nizuc. Located in the heart of the hotel zone of Cancun, Punta Nizuc sits atop of some of the Caribbean’s best snorkeling. You will be given the opportunity to explore Chitales reef which offers abundance of sea life. Or if you prefer, you may like to explore the hotels and shops of the beach as here you’ll have every amenity at your fingertips… rent a jet ski, take a ride on a parasail or people watch on Cancun’s hottest beach! After a day on the beach of Cancun enjoy a last sail back to the Marina Hacienda Del Mar where you set sail from a week ago.

Freshen up and then sit down to a wonderful final dinner with your fellow passengers and crew at the dock. Afterwards, transportation will be arranged to take you to the center of town for an exciting evening of nightlife.

Overnight at Lagoon 440 sailing catamaran.


Parasailing
Parasailing
Day 8 Cancun

We wake to a wonderful bon voyage breakfast and then say goodbye to your fellow passengers and crew after a great trip!

Enjoy an airport transfer with private vehicle and a professional driver.

Kensington Tours donates a portion of proceeds to our charitable initiative www.kensingtoncares.com which supports education-based initiatives in disadvantaged communities.

Your 8 Day/7 Night cruise includes: Lagoon 440 sailing catamaran, Air-conditioned guest cabin with ensuite bathroom, Experienced Captain, Chef/Hostess, Prepared meals, complete with appetizers, desserts and wine, Open Standard Bar throughout your charter week, Onboard Sporting equipment; sea kayak, snorkeling fins and masks, swim floats, Linens, bath towels, beach towels, Tender, All Water, All Fuel, Cruising permits, Required National Park fees & Taxes. Your cruise excludes: Two Dinners Ashore, Gratuities for crew. (15-20% customary ), Special Requested Liquors.

Depart from International Airport. End of itinerary.

Overnight at Depart (Int`l Airport) (standard).


Kensington Cares
Kensington Cares

Trip Includes
Guaranteed departure – Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services

Trip Excludes
Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance

Trip Terms & Conditions

  • Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $250). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure. We accept payment via credit card, certified check, wire transfer or money order.
  • Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
  • Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
  • Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
  • Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of deposit. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to 100% of program price.
  • Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.kensingtontours.com/terms-and-conditions
  • Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.